1. Stretching An Already-Concluded Narrative
This point is something the show was guilty of when greenlighting the second season, as Brodys decision not to hit the red detonation button onscreen appeared to be the literal manifestation of not cancelling the show. They made it work spectacularly though, even if some of Brody and enemy Nazirs motivations were a little forced. Installing Brody as a war-hero-turned-senator was a masterstroke, and allowed the show to play off racial and political angles with ease, all the while tying in Brodys internal allegiance to his titular homeland, or the death of Nazirs son that motivated him into action in the first place. However season 2s finale felt very rushed for a run that showcased the inner turmoil of Brody so well, leaning on a last-minute revelation that was further hampered by Carries go-bag macguffin, containing exactly what Brody needed to escape the country alongside a timeframe that nigh-effortlessly worked in his favour. Now in season three, with Brody held by a man who appears to owe a favour to Carrie keeping him alternately safe and as a prisoner, the entire two seasons dont seem have any relevance as we get a rehabilitation-turned-prison-break story. Carrie herself is resigned to a mental institution, making her current plight one of personal struggle, only related to the previous events due to her desperation to finally tell her side of the story, the details of which we all already know. Regardless, Homeland is still loaded with potential, with a great cast and fantastic acting. It remains in a strange place right now though, as they seem to be leaning on characters that previously were barely thought of as integral, all the while placing those we do want to see more of within increasingly restrictive situations. What do you guys think? Is it still a fun ride, or are you ready to get off, content with what you already know? Perhaps were embarking on another slow-burn climb, the release from which will be as exhilarating as the end of season one? Please have your say in the comments!